The ‘freeze cracks’ on Hwy. 96,  especially between Sheridan Lake and mile marker 200 to the east, are a serious problem. They literally jar vehicles to the point of causing structural damage. At a recent meeting in Lamar with CDOT,  I learned they were planning to do some shoulder expansion work on Hwy 96 in 2013. I requested they re-appropriate some of those funds to 2011 and use them to correct the problem of those depressions. Mr. Tim Harris; Transportation Director, Region 2; Colorado Department of Transportation; 905 Erie Ave.; Pueblo, Co. 81002  indicated they would give this consideration. The commissioners will be writing to Mr. Harris  requesting action to alleviate this situation.  It would lend a lot more impetus to the request if local people would also write individual letters.  Normally these letters would also be sent to the CDOT Executive Director. Since there will be a new executive director named when Hickenlooper takes office, it may be just as well to wait until that person is known. Letters should still be sent to the regional director ASAP. Mr. Harris’ mailing address is above. His e-mail is timothy.harris@dot.state.co.us and his phone is 1-719-546- 5452.

            We are having some problem with the trash service the county provides through D and W Waste management.  The dumpsters are filling up before the two week dumping cycle is complete. D & W assures they are emptying the dumpsters every two weeks and have maintained this schedule except for equipment breakdowns. The most problem seems to occur in Brandon and Chivington but overflows occur at Towner as well. We are going to consider adding yet another dumpster in Brandon and Chivington. It is important that D &W maintain their schedule. It is also important that people have some consideration for the service and not abuse it. The service was basically intended for household trash. The dumpsters are not intended for barbed wire, fence posts, strips or pieces of metal, old furniture and even a combine cylinder-- all of which have been in the Brandon dumpsters.  It helps if boxes are broken down and even if people will take a little

time in placing bags in the dumpster so as to best utilize  the space. The service will work  with cooperation and consideration.